When you’re deep in the wilderness, far from modern conveniences, the value of a portable camping shower becomes immediately apparent. Whether you’re a seasoned camper, a weekend warrior, or someone exploring the great outdoors for the first time, a reliable camping shower can make all the difference in your experience.
In this guide, we’ll take a detailed look at The 10 Best Portable Camping Showers available today. From ultra-lightweight models ideal for backpackers to more robust setups for car campers, we’ve covered every option to help you find the perfect shower for your needs.
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1. Advanced Elements 5 Gallon Summer Shower
Design: The Advanced Elements 5 Gallon Summer Shower is one of the best solar-powered showers on the market. With a large five-gallon capacity, it’s perfect for those who want a longer shower without the need for frequent refills.
Performance: The shower heats water effectively in direct sunlight, thanks to its solar panel design. It can reach temperatures of up to 110°F in just a few hours. The shower head offers a good flow, and the on/off switch is easy to use.
Portability: Weighing just 1 pound when empty, this shower is highly portable. It’s easy to pack and carry, making it ideal for both car camping and backpacking.
Durability: Made from rugged materials, this shower is built to last. It includes a Velcro strap for soap and a mesh pocket for accessories.
Pros:
Lightweight and portable
Effective solar heating
Durable construction
Cons:
Requires sunlight to heat water
The hose could be longer
Best For: Solar-heated showers on the go.
2. Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Shower
Design: The Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Shower stands out with its foot pump operation. Unlike gravity-fed showers, this model uses air pressure to deliver a consistent water flow, which you can control.
Performance: The shower holds 2.9 gallons of water and provides a steady stream for up to 7 minutes. The spray nozzle offers a hands-free option, making it easy to wash without having to hold the showerhead.
Portability: Although slightly heavier at 1.5 pounds, the Helio is still compact and easy to transport. It comes with a carrying case for convenience.
Durability: Constructed with rugged materials, the Helio is designed to withstand the rigors of the outdoors. The foot pump is durable and provides a reliable flow without the need for batteries.
Pros:
Consistent water pressure
Hands-free spray nozzle
Easy to use
Cons:
Smaller water capacity
Heavier than other models
Best For: Campers who want consistent water pressure without relying on gravity.
3. Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower
Design: The Ivation Portable Outdoor Shower is an electric-powered shower that’s perfect for those who want a bit more luxury while camping. It’s powered by a rechargeable battery and features a simple design that’s easy to use.
Performance: This shower delivers a strong and consistent water flow. The battery lasts for about 60 minutes on a full charge, which is enough for several showers. It also has a built-in water filtration system.
Portability: Weighing just 1.8 pounds, this shower is light and easy to carry. It comes with a USB charging cable and a compact carrying bag.
Durability: The Ivation is well-constructed, with a sturdy hose and showerhead. The battery is waterproof and designed to withstand the elements.
Pros:
Strong water flow
Long battery life
Built-in water filtration
Cons:
Requires charging
Not solar-powered
Best For: Campers who want a more powerful, consistent water flow.
4. Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower
Design: The Coleman 5-Gallon Solar Shower is a classic choice for campers. It’s a simple, gravity-fed shower that uses solar energy to heat the water. The shower bag is made from heat-locking materials that warm the water quickly when placed in the sun.
Performance: This shower can hold up to 5 gallons of water, which is enough for multiple showers. It has a handy on/off valve to control the water flow and a comfortable showerhead.
Portability: At just 8 ounces when empty, this shower is incredibly lightweight. It’s easy to fold up and pack, making it perfect for camping trips.
Durability: Made from rugged, non-toxic PVC, the Coleman shower bag is built to last. The reinforced handle is strong enough to hold the full weight of the water.
Pros:
Lightweight and compact
Affordable
Effective solar heating
Cons:
Gravity-fed system requires hanging
Limited water pressure
Best For: Budget-conscious campers who need a simple and effective solar shower.
5. KEDSUM Portable Camping Shower
Design: The KEDSUM Portable Camping Shower is a battery-operated shower that provides a consistent water flow. It comes with a pump that you submerge in a water source, and the water is then delivered through the hose to the showerhead.
Performance: This shower provides a flow rate of 1 gallon per minute. The rechargeable battery offers up to 45 minutes of use on a full charge, making it suitable for several short showers.
Portability: Weighing just 1.8 pounds, this shower is easy to carry. It comes with a carrying bag, a suction cup, and an S-hook for hanging.
Durability: The KEDSUM shower is built with high-quality materials that can withstand outdoor conditions. The battery and pump are waterproof, ensuring they stay protected.
Pros:
Consistent water flow
Rechargeable battery
Easy to set up
Cons:
Battery life may not be sufficient for long trips
Requires charging
Best For: Campers looking for an easy-to-use, battery-powered shower.
6. Sea to Summit Pocket Shower
Design: The Sea to Summit Pocket Shower is an ultra-lightweight, packable option for backpackers. It’s essentially a dry bag that doubles as a shower when filled with water and hung from a tree or other support.
Performance: Despite its minimalist design, the Pocket Shower provides up to 7 minutes of water flow. The twist mechanism allows you to control the flow rate easily.
Portability: Weighing just 4.3 ounces, this is one of the lightest portable showers on the market. It packs down to the size of a soda can, making it perfect for backpackers.
Durability: Made from durable, waterproof nylon, the Pocket Shower is built to last. The seams are heat-taped to ensure no leaks.
Pros:
Extremely lightweight and compact
Adjustable water flow
Easy to pack
Cons:
Limited water capacity
Gravity-fed, so it needs to be hung
Best For: Backpackers who need an ultra-lightweight shower option.
7. RinseKit Portable Shower
Design: The RinseKit Portable Shower is a pressurized, self-contained system that doesn’t require batteries or pumping. It’s essentially a portable tank that you fill with water from a hose or faucet, and it maintains pressure for up to a month.
Performance: This shower delivers a strong spray, similar to what you’d expect from a garden hose. It holds up to 2 gallons of water, providing around 4-5 minutes of continuous spray.
Portability: Although it’s heavier than some other options at 9 pounds, the RinseKit is still relatively easy to transport. It comes with a handle for carrying and doesn’t require any setup.
Durability: The RinseKit is built from durable plastic and designed to withstand rough conditions. The pressure system is reliable and requires little maintenance.
Pros:
No batteries or pumping required
Strong, consistent spray
Easy to use
Cons:
Heavier than other models
Limited water capacity
Best For: Car campers who want a no-fuss, pressurized shower.
8. Mr. Heater Boss-XB13 Basecamp Battery Operated Shower
Design: The Mr. Heater Boss-XB13 Basecamp Shower is a powerful option for those who need hot water on demand. It’s a battery-operated shower with a built-in water heater, providing hot showers wherever you go.
Performance: This shower delivers up to 1.2 gallons per minute, with adjustable water temperature. The rechargeable battery provides up to 40 minutes of use, and the heater can raise water temperature by up to 35°F.
Portability: Weighing 13 pounds, this shower is heavier and bulkier than other models. However, it’s still portable enough for car camping and comes with a carry handle.
Durability: Built from rugged materials, the Boss-XB13 is designed to handle tough outdoor conditions. The water heater is reliable, and the battery is well-protected.
Pros:
Instant hot water
Strong water flow
Durable and reliable
Cons:
Heavier and bulkier
Requires charging
Best For: Campers who prioritize hot water and are willing to carry a bit more weight.
9. Zodi Outback Gear Hot Tap Travel Shower
Design: The Zodi Outback Gear Hot Tap Travel Shower is another option for those who need hot water while camping. It uses a propane tank to heat water and provides a strong, consistent flow.
Performance: This shower delivers up to 1 gallon of hot water per minute. The propane heater is efficient and heats water quickly. The showerhead has a simple on/off control to conserve water.
Portability: At 10 pounds, this shower is heavier but still portable enough for car camping. It comes with a storage case for easy transport.
Durability: The Zodi Hot Tap is built to last, with high-quality materials that can withstand the elements. The propane heater is reliable and requires minimal maintenance.
Pros:
Instant hot water
Strong water flow
Durable construction
Cons:
Requires a propane tank
Heavier than other options
Best For: Campers who need a reliable source of hot water in the wilderness.
10. Simple Shower Portable Camping Shower
Design: The Simple Shower Portable Camping Shower is as simple as it gets. It’s a lightweight, gravity-fed shower that attaches to a standard water bottle to create a makeshift shower.
Performance: While basic, this shower provides a surprisingly good flow rate. It’s perfect for rinsing off quickly after a day of hiking or swimming.
Portability: Weighing just 2 ounces, this is the lightest option on our list. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket, making it perfect for ultralight backpackers.
Durability: Made from durable plastic, the Simple Shower is built to withstand outdoor conditions. It’s straightforward and reliable.
Pros:
Ultra-lightweight
Easy to use
Affordable
Cons:
Very basic
Requires a water bottle
Best For: Ultralight backpackers who need a quick and easy shower solution.
Conclusion
Choosing the right portable camping shower depends on your needs, the type of camping you do, and how much weight you’re willing to carry. For backpackers, lightweight and compact models like the Sea to Summit Pocket Shower or the Simple Shower Portable Camping Shower are ideal. If you prioritize hot water, consider options like the Mr. Heater Boss-XB13 Basecamp Shower or the Zodi Outback Gear Hot Tap Travel Shower. For those looking for a balance between portability and performance, the Nemo Helio Portable Pressure Shower is an excellent choice.
No matter which shower you choose, having a way to clean up after a day in the outdoors will significantly enhance your camping experience. Happy camping, and stay refreshed!